MSG Timothy "Griz" Lynn Martin

MSG Timothy L. Martin was accustomed to the military life. He was the son of a career Air Force sergeant and traveled around the country before moving in with his grandmother in Aurora, Ind., at the age of 16.

So his decision to join the military after graduating from Aurora High School in 1974 wasn't much of a surprise to his family. Before he was killed Oct. 3 while serving with Task Force ranger, Timothy Martin had an accomplished military career.

He was well-trained, having completed Airborne Ranger School, Jungle Warfare Training, Jumpmaster Training, Special Forces Qualifications, Combat Engineer, Special Forces Underwater Operations. His decorations included the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals, Combat Infantryman Badge and Ranger tab.

Timothy Martin left behind his wife, Linda, and three girls when he left for Somalia. Before he deployed, he said he was thinking about retiring and starting a small business. He would have completed 20 years of active duty service in June.